FR44 vs SR22 Insurance Florida: Key Differences Explained (2026)
If you have been cited for a DUI or serious traffic violation in Florida, you may have heard both “FR44” and “SR22” mentioned. They are related but different — and confusing them can cost you time, money, and your license. This guide explains exactly what each filing is, who needs it, and how costs compare.
What Is FR44 Insurance in Florida?
FR44 is a Florida-specific certificate of financial responsibility required after a DUI conviction. It proves to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) that you carry significantly higher liability coverage than the Florida minimum.
FR44 coverage requirements:
- Bodily injury: $100,000 per person / $300,000 per incident
- Property damage: $50,000
These limits are 4-10x higher than Florida’s standard minimum liability requirements. FR44 is only required in Florida and Virginia — no other states use FR44.
What Is SR22 Insurance in Florida?
SR22 is a certificate of financial responsibility used in most US states — including Florida — for lesser traffic violations. It proves you carry Florida’s standard minimum liability coverage:
- Bodily injury: $10,000 per person / $20,000 per incident
- Property damage: $10,000
SR22 in Florida is typically required for driving with a suspended license, accumulating too many points, certain at-fault accidents, or non-DUI violations requiring license reinstatement.
FR44 vs SR22: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Factor | FR44 | SR22 |
|---|---|---|
| Triggered by | DUI conviction in Florida | License suspension, points, non-DUI violations |
| Coverage required | 100/300/50 (high) | 10/20/10 (standard FL minimum) |
| States that use it | Florida and Virginia only | Most US states |
| Duration | 3 years from reinstatement | 3 years (typically) |
| Monthly premium impact | Significant increase (high coverage + DUI surcharge) | Moderate increase (filing fee + violation surcharge) |
| Who files it | Your insurance company → DHSMV | Your insurance company → DHSMV |
| Lapse consequences | License re-suspended, clock resets | License re-suspended, clock resets |
Which One Do You Need?
You need FR44 if: You were convicted of DUI in Florida. DHSMV will specify FR44 on your reinstatement paperwork. If your notice says FR44, you cannot substitute SR22 — the filing types are not interchangeable.
You need SR22 if: You had your license suspended for reasons other than DUI — excessive points, driving without insurance, certain at-fault accidents. SR22 meets the minimum filing requirement in these cases.
Cost Difference: FR44 vs SR22 in Florida
FR44 costs more because it requires significantly higher coverage limits. A Florida driver who previously paid $80/month for liability insurance might pay:
- SR22 equivalent: $100-$140/month (standard limits + DUI/violation surcharge)
- FR44: $130-$250/month (higher coverage limits + DUI surcharge)
The difference is primarily the coverage requirement — FR44’s 100/300/50 limits cost more to underwrite than SR22’s 10/20/10 limits. The filing fee itself ($15-$25) is similar for both.
Can You Use SR22 Instead of FR44?
No. If DHSMV requires FR44, an SR22 does not satisfy the requirement. Florida specifically tracks FR44 filings separately from SR22. Submitting SR22 when FR44 is required will not reinstate your license and may delay your case.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between FR44 and SR22 in Florida?
FR44 is required after a DUI conviction and mandates 100/300/50 coverage. SR22 is required for other license suspensions and only requires Florida’s standard minimums (10/20/10). They are different filings for different violations.
Is FR44 more expensive than SR22?
Yes. FR44 costs more because it requires higher liability limits. Expect FR44 premiums to run $30-$80/month higher than comparable SR22 coverage.
How long do you need FR44 in Florida vs SR22?
Both typically require three years of continuous coverage from the date of license reinstatement. Second DUI offenses may extend FR44 requirements.
Can I switch from FR44 to SR22 in Florida?
No. If DHSMV requires FR44, you must maintain FR44 for the full duration. You cannot downgrade to SR22 until the FR44 requirement expires.